Each year, the U.S. fields a team of twelve golfers to take part in one of two biennial international team competitions. The teams, though, are defined by two very different qualification systems:
President’s Cup 2011 qualification - Includes every event from 2009 Wyndham Championship through 2011 BMW Championship. One point per $1 earned in 2009-2010, two points per $1 earned in 2011. No extra weight for major championships. Top 10 in standings qualify, with 2 Captain’s Picks.
Ryder Cup 2012 qualification - One point per $1,000 earned in the four major tournaments in 2011. No points awarded for any other 2011 events. One point per $1,000 earned in most 2012 TOUR events through the PGA Championship, two points per $1,000 earned in the 2012 majors, and 1/2 point per $1,000 earned in 2012 opposite events. Top 10 in standings qualify, with 2 Captain’s Picks.
These are two distinct approaches to finding the best American golfers across a two year period. Which do you prefer, and why?
*Discussion: Which is the better qualification system for U.S. players - President’s Cup or Ryder Cup?
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